'Zero-tolerance' for scramblers in residential areas - PSNI

Police urged parents and guardians to consider the risks when they buy them for their young people

A "zero-tolerance approach" to those driving scrambler bikes in residential areas will be taken, the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) has said.

It comes after a man was taken to hospital after a crash between a scrambler and a car in east Belfast.

The police have said that the rider of the electric scrambler bike sustained "serious injuries".

Insp Moutray from the PSNI said the driving of scramblers and other off-road bikes is an "issue of real concern in our community".

Police said officers had seen several other scrambler bikes in the immediate area being ridden by young people with no helmets.

"We tracked them with the assistance of our colleagues in Air Support Unit, and continue to make enquiries within the community as to the identity of those involved," said Insp Moutray.

'Off-road use only'

On Sunday, a man was taken to hospital after the electric scrambler bike he was riding was involved in a crash with a car in east Belfast

Police said they wanted to remind scrambler bike owners that the majority are restricted to off-road use only.

However the PSNI added that this does not mean that they can be driven anywhere "off-road".

"These vehicles should only be driven on private land where the landowner has given permission and should not be driven on pavements, roads, public property or parks," said Insp Moutray.

Warning for parents

"Think before you buy these bikes. Insurance and safety equipment regulations must be complied with in order to drive these vehicles legally.

"All too often, we see these bikes being ridden without any protective equipment."

Parents and guardians have also been urged to consider the risks when they purchase these vehicles for their young people.

Residents from east Belfast were asked to report any incidents of scrambler bikes in residential areas.